My friend just picked up the '06 karma in 177....coming off the V-pro 170, which he absolutely loved, and I've checked them out, they are dank as hell, very light but pretty stiff at the same time, you can push them hard and they'll push back, the topsheet is also amazingly sweet, kinda like skate griptape, a really rough feel, it's nice and durable. I aven't ridden them yet, but I can tell you when I flexed them in his living room they felt really nice, depends on you riding style and weight though, if you're a little heavy, or like to ski hard and fast, I'd say get them, cause they are stiff and aggressive, otherwise see if you can ride a pair before you decide....but I'll say this....if I could afford a set, they'd be in my quiver and waiting for opening day already.